Growing exports of flower bulbs to Eastern Europe

26/03/2009 15:00

Exports of Dutch flower bulbs to Eastern Europe are growing continually. In 2008, nearly 450 million bulbs were exported to countries in Eastern Europe, an increase by 30 percent relative to 2007. With 54 percent, the increase in the fourth quarter of 2008 was even higher.

Exports doubled within three years

Exports to Eastern European countries have doubled in three years and tripled over the past six years. The bulk of exports to Eastern Europe are destined for Russia.

Exports of flower bulbs, Eastern Europe

Total exports down

Total exports of flower bulbs declined in 2008. Last year, the Netherlands exported nearly 4 billion flower bulbs, a reduction by 3 percent relative to 2007. Exports to the main import country, the United States, fell by 15 percent to nearly 800 million bulbs. The US account for one fifth of Dutch flower bulb exports.

With a share of 18 percent, Germany holds second place. Last year, the Netherlands exported 700 million flower bulbs to Germany, 7 percent more than in 2007. Exports to the United Kingdom – also an important European customer – dropped by 14 percent. Due to devaluation of the British pound against the euro, bulbs have become more expensive for UK residents.